Springer Building
121 Tijeras Ave., NE, Albuquerque, NMThe Springer Transfer Company was founded in Albuquerque by Mr. William Springer, who began in the drayage business. Local hauling of furniture, sand, and earth was the main activity of the company in those days. In January 1918, the Springer Transfer Company was incorporated in the new State of New Mexico. Mr. Springer served as president until his death in 1925 when Mr. Bennett replaced him. By 1925 the business had grown to "engage in the storage business to provide a potentially profitable service to the growing population of Albuquerque." A warehouse on East Central Avenue was purchased first; then in 1929 Springer Transger engaged architect G. M. Williamson to complete a new office and storage facility. Williamson was an associate of Trost and Trost in the 1920s. However, it was his own firm, including architect Miles Brittelle, Sr., which designed the Springer Building in 1929.
According to Edna Bergman, the architect consciously selected a motif for the building which would provide 'something different for an indifferent site.' However, with the construction of the handsome Tijeras railroad underpass in 1937, a very pleasing juxtaposition of concrete work occurred, the open spaces of the underpass railing system taking on the same shape as the entry arch of the Springer Building; the site became more interesting visually than it had been when the building was first conceived.
The Springer Building is an outstanding example of a commercial building that fits not only its use and site but reflected as well the wider interests of the architectural world. As a 'Mayan temple' in a period of archaeological revival styles, it provides a handsome, unusual and appropriate counterpoint to Albuquerque's pueblo and southwestern revival buildings.
Local significance of the building:
According to Edna Bergman, the architect consciously selected a motif for the building which would provide 'something different for an indifferent site.' However, with the construction of the handsome Tijeras railroad underpass in 1937, a very pleasing juxtaposition of concrete work occurred, the open spaces of the underpass railing system taking on the same shape as the entry arch of the Springer Building; the site became more interesting visually than it had been when the building was first conceived.
The Springer Building is an outstanding example of a commercial building that fits not only its use and site but reflected as well the wider interests of the architectural world. As a 'Mayan temple' in a period of archaeological revival styles, it provides a handsome, unusual and appropriate counterpoint to Albuquerque's pueblo and southwestern revival buildings.
Commerce; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
New Mexico was one of the last territories to become a state, gaining statehood in 1912. Before that, it had been part of the Spanish Empire, Mexico, and the United States Territory of New Mexico.
About Bernalillo County
Bernalillo County Timeline
Bernalillo County, located in the central part of the U.S. state of New Mexico, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Tiwa and Tanoan people, who lived off the land and established settlements along the Rio Grande.
In 1540, Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado led an expedition into what is now Bernalillo County. The Spanish established several missions and settlements in the region, including the Alameda Mission and the village of Alburquerque (later renamed Albuquerque). These early settlements laid the foundation for the region's future development.
During the 19th century, Bernalillo County experienced significant growth with the arrival of American pioneers and traders. The region became an important trading post along the historic Santa Fe Trail, further connecting it to the expanding western frontier. In 1851, Bernalillo County was officially established as one of the original nine counties in the newly formed New Mexico Territory.
Bernalillo County played a significant role during the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War. It served as a strategic location for both sides, as the Rio Grande acted as a natural barrier. The county saw battles, skirmishes, and military engagements, leaving a lasting impact on the region.
In the 20th century, Bernalillo County continued to grow and develop, becoming an important center for government, commerce, and culture in New Mexico. Today, the county is home to the vibrant city of Albuquerque, which is the state's largest city and the cultural, economic, and political hub of the region. Bernalillo County's rich history can be seen through its diverse architectural styles, cultural traditions, and landmarks that reflect the people who have called this area home throughout the centuries.
In 1540, Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado led an expedition into what is now Bernalillo County. The Spanish established several missions and settlements in the region, including the Alameda Mission and the village of Alburquerque (later renamed Albuquerque). These early settlements laid the foundation for the region's future development.
During the 19th century, Bernalillo County experienced significant growth with the arrival of American pioneers and traders. The region became an important trading post along the historic Santa Fe Trail, further connecting it to the expanding western frontier. In 1851, Bernalillo County was officially established as one of the original nine counties in the newly formed New Mexico Territory.
Bernalillo County played a significant role during the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War. It served as a strategic location for both sides, as the Rio Grande acted as a natural barrier. The county saw battles, skirmishes, and military engagements, leaving a lasting impact on the region.
In the 20th century, Bernalillo County continued to grow and develop, becoming an important center for government, commerce, and culture in New Mexico. Today, the county is home to the vibrant city of Albuquerque, which is the state's largest city and the cultural, economic, and political hub of the region. Bernalillo County's rich history can be seen through its diverse architectural styles, cultural traditions, and landmarks that reflect the people who have called this area home throughout the centuries.
Bernalillo County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Bernalillo County, New Mexico.
- 1692: Bernalillo County established as part of New Spain's Santa Ana Pueblo land grant.
- 1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and Bernalillo County becomes part of the Republic of Mexico.
- 1848: Bernalillo County is ceded to the United States as part of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, ending the Mexican-American War.
- 1852: Bernalillo County officially organized as a county within the New Mexico Territory.
- 1880: Completion of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway line through Bernalillo County stimulates growth and development in the region.
- 1902: The county seat is moved from Albuquerque to nearby Los Ranchos.
- 1930: The county seat is moved back to Albuquerque due to the city's rapid growth and importance.
- 1960s: Bernalillo County experiences significant population growth as a result of urbanization and suburban development.
- 2000s: Bernalillo County implements various initiatives to promote economic development, community engagement, and sustainable growth.